Bauhinia polysperma, Bauhinia glauca subsp. tenuiflora, Bauhinia caterviflora, Bauhinia tenuiflora

Native to northeast India, China, and Southeast Asia, Glaucous Climbing Bauhinia is a large shrub or vine that can grow to heights of 5-10 feet. This woody climber can be grown in full sun or in semi-shade and will thrive in warm climates, USDA Zones 9-11, but is cold hardy to temperatures in the 30s F for a short time. It will also tolerate regular and moderate water.

The plant produces white to off-white blossoms that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The flowers, which are clustered in corymb-like clusters, have five spoon-shaped petals with three curved upward stamens. After the flowers die back, the plant produces a non-bursting pod.

Bauhinia polysperma is relatively easy to care for and propagate. It can be grown in a pot in cold regions, as long as extreme cold temperatures can be avoided. It requires regular pruning and trimming to prevent excessive growth and should be watered at least once a week. To promote healthy blooms, fertilizer should be applied every two to three months. For best results, it should be planted in a rich, well-draining soil and sheltered from damaging winds.

Similar plants:

• Bauhinia acuminata (Dwarf White Orchid Tree, White Bauhinia, Kaa-long, Snowy Orchid)
• Bauhinia aureifolia (Gold Leaf Bauhinia, Bai Mai Si Thong)
• Bauhinia bassacensis, Phanera bassacensis (Bauhinia)
• Bauhinia bidentata, Phanera bidentata (Orange Bauhinia, Orange Orchid Vine)
• Bauhinia blakeana (Hong Kong Orchid Tree)
• Bauhinia bowkeri (Kei White Bauhinia, Bowker's Bauhinia, Keibeesklou)
• Bauhinia corymbosa, Phanera corymbosa (Vining bauhinia, Climbing Bauhinia, Camel's foot)
• Bauhinia cunninghamii, Lysiphyllum cunninghamii (Jigal Tree, Kimberley Bauhinia)
• Bauhinia divaricata (Butterfly Orchid Tree)
• Bauhinia forficata, Bauhinia candicans (Pata de Vaca)